Mike L

Swindle, Gary Klien, Shaw Grigsby and others all have videos on it and claim it’s the strongest knot ever created. I use the SDJ. Mike

Great News! Mike

Swim worm of your choice over and through any and all vegetation and dropping in any holes you come over. Mike

You’re not alone Brother… Mike

I grew up around 69th and Ashland in an area known as “Little Sicily” in the late 50’s to early 70’s. My whole world was Damen to Ashland 67th to 71st. At that time everything was your neighborhood, your block, your “street gang” if you will. Then 1968-1969 happened. (I still have the scars to prove it) But We still took care of our own and our own problem’s. Then it changed again..We moved to the 63rd and Pulaski area which seemed like a suburb. Mid 70’s came and that was it. It seemed like bomb went off. The sense of belonging, family, respect all seemed to be lost. The people who took pride in the neighborhood and the willingness to protect it either moved to the south or near west suburbs, or left for Viet Nam and never came back. Mike

Atta Boy!! Great Job to you both!! Congratulations Mike

Thanks Pal, it’s been really rough on her but she’s a tough girl. Mike

A recent thread reminded me of this. Sorry I haven’t followed through but Mrs Mike has been dealing with a possible Covid diagnosis and all my thoughts and energies has been directed to her. I Haven’t been able to think about much of anything else. Hopefully we can do something this spring. Mike

I posted awhile back about trying to set up a meet and great for Florida folks and garnered some preliminary interest. I haven’t said anymore yet because Mrs Mike tested and my entire focus has been on her. I attended the road-trip on Wilson Lake a few years ago and had a great time. Depending on what happens I’m in! Mike

So sorry to here this. He was the best. I remember him being scared to death to fly. He would get in his “Madden Cruiser” and drive cross country to announce a game. May he Rest In Peace

Don’t forget the Italian Ice! ? Mike

No I didn’t, and regret it You’re exactly right, totally different than when the old man had it. Makes me think he wouldn’t have sold or at least kept his name off it if he knew how much it changed. New owners are just trading on his name. Same happened when UNO’s changed hands. I get it, a bunch of them lived around there…Elwood Park or River Forest. Next time you’re around there stop by Johnny’s, it’s just like it was 30yrs ago. Mike

Agree Red Shad, red flake and most anything else with some kind of red gets bit. Been that way for as long as I can remember. Up your way or down here on The Lake. Mike

Ditto Mike

Never… Mike

Crank baits…Rarely use them but when I do all RC Top water…Spook, Magnum UV Speed Worm, SK Sexy Dawg Worms…Magnum UV Speed Worm, Cut R, Fat Max ribbon tail Creature….Rage Bug, Sweet Beaver Spinnerbait…War Eagle Mike

Yep, Exactly! I really can’t pigeon hole myself as one or the other. If not sight fishing this time of the year down here or punching in others, swimming one of them on top or under the surface, but with a 3/16 is my go to presentation all year every year. I hardly ever fish small ponds where the finessey stuff may work better. I can’t stand to use light line and small baits on a spinning rod so I just don’t do it. Obviously, If I had to use a slow and slower presentation to get bit then that’s what I do, but it’s almost always because it’s the only way left that they’ll take it. Using a t rig doesn’t mean it must be used slow and methodical. It’s just another way when all else fails. Mike

From my family to yours Merry Christmas to you all! Mike

Merry Christmas Pal From my family to yours! I probably thought about you and your neighbors in your region more last year than any other. Keep the faith brother. Mike

You absolutely need to go. Also, don’t forget the Italian Ice!! Mike

I agree The best National chain is Portillo’s. The worst is Subway. They give the least amount of meat than any other. But the best sandwich shop above all Is Johnny’s Italian Beef on North Ave in Elmwood Park, a west Chicago suburb. Mike

Same to you Pal! Enjoy and be safe Mike

Back at ya! May you and your family always remain safe and healthy Mike

I did until my grandkids came along! ? Mike

The more I use mine the more I like it! Didn't expect it to be as light and sensitive as it is for the price. The most expensive rod I own is a Loomis GLX. While the Tatula isn’t exactly on par to it, it’s becoming my favorite. Mike